Your Front Porch: An Important Key to Selling a House

Your front area, stoop or porch is the first thing potential buyers see before they enter your home. In most cases, they linger there for a few seconds. In some cases, it can be several minutes as they wait for another party to arrive or while their real estate agent is accessing the lockbox on your front door. In either scenario, it’s vital that your porch looks as spiffy and welcoming as possible to leave a lasting impression.

Here are ten ideas to leave a great impression, right from the start.

Make it Clean and Tidy

Really deep clean your porch. Get rid of leaves and cobwebs up and around it. Look at this area with a critical eye. Be sure to repair any issues. Power wash the entire area, including siding and windows. Make the glass door and windows sparkle.

Cost: A few hours of your time, unless you have repairs.

Purchase a New Mat

If your mat is discolored or beat up, now is the time to change it out. There’s something psychologically beneficial when potential buyers see a new coconut fiber mat that welcomes them into your home.

Cost: $20-$40

Paint Your Front Door

Before painting, make sure your door is in good condition. Be sure to sand down the areas of peeling and chipping. Per our previous blog post on paint colors, the best ones for this door are navy blue, dark gray or charcoal.

Cost: $18-50 per gallon

Inspect the Hardware

Do your door knobs, locks, knocker, mail slot, kick plate and hinges need to be replaced because they’re corroded and hard to turn? If the answer is no, clean them up. If it is yes, be sure to replace with brushed nickel.

Cost: $12-150 depending on what needs to be replaced

Add a Wreath

A door wreath is a nice touch to any exterior presence. Be sure to change out the wreaths for each season.

Cost: $21-175 per wreath

Consider an Outdoor Water Fountain

Potential buyers may feel more relaxed as they enter your home when they see and hear bubbling water.

Cost: $60-350

Invest in Potted Flowers and Plants

Place one pot on either side of your front door for a symmetrical effect. The plants should be colorful, well-watered and have different textures.

Cost: $6-25 per plant

Create a Sitting Area

Depending on how large your porch is, you may have room for one chair or a whole porch set. Ideas might include: a small bench, rocking chairs, porch swing or wicker furniture. Be sure to include outdoor throw pillows to add color and comfort.

Cost: $150-3,000 from one chair to a complete porch set

Check Exterior Lights

Make sure all light bulbs work properly. Clean the fixtures thoroughly and if they look dated, replace them.

Cost: $20-200 per fixture

Replace House Numbers

Large, modern numbers can help make a positive statement about the house.

Cost: $25-50 per number

These Tips Brought to You by Hudson’s Hometown Broker

Your front porch can leave a positive, memorable impression on future buyers. I will help do everything in my power to ensure it’s presented in the absolute best light. Please give me a call at 330.608.4647 to discuss this topic further!